Manager jobs in South Africa

Are you a highly driven and experienced Manufacturing Engineering Manager ready to lead a critical function within a dynamic FMCG manufacturing site? Do you possess a Six Sigma Black Belt and a proven track record of delivering significant improvements in fast-paced, demanding environments? If so, this is an exceptional opportunity to join a profitable and expanding company, part of a larger European group, as they embark on a substantial 5-year automation investment journey.

Our client's Cheshire site, with approximately 150 employees, is at a mid-level maturity in its Lean/Six Sigma journey. They are seeking a visionary leader who can champion their continuous improvement initiatives and elevate their engineering capabilities to new heights. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of their manufacturing operations.

The Role

As Manufacturing Engineering Manager, you will be instrumental in driving operational excellence, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and leading a talented team. You will directly manage a Lead Engineer, Project Manager, and Continuous Improvement Coordinator, working closely alongside the Production Manager to achieve their ambitious goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership & Continuous Improvement:
  • Develop and implement a robust engineering strategy that aligns with overall company goals, driving a continuous improvement agenda through Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
  • Champion change initiatives, identify opportunities for operational enhancements, and ensure the consistent application of best-in-class engineering standards.
  • Actively support the entire business sales and operations planning process, ensuring engineering contributions are seamlessly integrated.
• Operational Excellence & Performance:
  • Oversee departmental efficiency and functional performance, ensuring all outputs meet or exceed targets in areas such as safety, quality, delivery, cost, cash, EVA growth, and service.
  • Drive initiatives to significantly reduce set-up times and optimize manufacturing processes for maximum productivity.
  • Maintain and exceed internal and external customer satisfaction through a relentless focus on quality and efficiency.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of engineers, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
• Take ownership of personal development plans for all staff, providing coaching and support to enhance capabilities and ensure robust succession planning.
• Recognize and reward influential ideas from all levels of the organization, fostering an environment where innovation thrives.
• Stakeholder Collaboration & Partnership:
  • Identify, initiate, and nurture strategic partnerships, both internally (across the site and within the wider Group) and externally, to secure appropriate resources and flexibility for business objectives.
  • Effectively manage relationships with key customers and suppliers to ensure seamless operations and continuous improvement.
  • Collaborate closely with sister companies within the Group to share best practices, deliver joint solutions, and develop collective capabilities.

What You\'ll Bring

• A strong engineering background gained within a demanding and fast-paced manufacturing environment, ideally within FMCG.
• Six Sigma Black Belt certification is essential.
• Proven experience in a leadership role, managing and developing engineering teams.
• Demonstrable expertise in Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Exceptional business acumen and a strategic mindset with the ability to translate goals into actionable plans.
• A commitment to high standards of productivity and a keen awareness of company goals.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.

Why Join Our Client?

This is an exciting time to join their team in Cheshire. You will be part of a forward-thinking, profitable organisation with significant investment planned for automation, offering you the chance to make a tangible impact and shape their future. They offer a challenging yet rewarding environment where your expertise will be valued and your career growth supported.

If you are a driven and ambitious Manufacturing Engineering Manager ready to take on this critical role, we encourage you to apply.